I didn't expect to miss it so much. After all, the weather in the Midwest is severe, with blazing hot summers and freezing cold winters. They don't have oceans, or mountains, or even many hills. In fact, some parts of the landscape are pretty darn dull.

What is it, then, that leaves me feeling homesick more that a year after I relocated to Florida? Well, for one thing, it's the people. Midwesterners are some of the friendliest and most down-to-earth people you'll ever meet. Because of its central location, people from everywhere else in the United States wind up in the Midwest, and it's influenced by all the other parts of the country.

Before we moved, we lived outside of Chicago, one of the friendliest big cities anywhere, with some of the finest restaurants, shopping, and cultural events you'll ever find. Although we lived in the suburbs, we made frequent to trips to Chicago to take advantage of everything that world-class city has to offer.

For those who prefer rural life, the Midwest still has plenty of wide open spaces and relatively affordable prices. Wonderful smaller cities also offer a wealth of opportunity. From vast prairies to lovely forests, to the beaches of the great lakes, there is plenty of variety in the Midwest. The soil is rich and fertile, and much of the nation's food is grown there.

There's even something to be said for the weather. Midwestern autumns are often glorious, with gorgeous foliage colors and bright blue skies. Spring may not last long, but every year there are some absolutely lovely days. While the climate may tend to extremes, it's never boring. In Chicago we had a saying: "If you don't like the weather, wait five minutes and it'll change!"

While it may not boast perfect weather or ocean views, the Midwest is a wonderful place to raise a family and great place to call home.

Learn more about this author, Emily Wickersham.
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